Staying fit with the Dana-Farber Lebed method

Lisa Vernon-Sparks

Wednesday

Feb 27, 2013 at 3:26 PM

For patients with cancer, staying fit is a crucial part of well-being.

For patients with cancer, staying fit is a crucial part of well-being.

At Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, the "Healthy-Steps" movement program can help patients who are undergoing treatments or after surgery with therapeutic exercises that enhance well-being. The program follows the Lebed Method of movement, a tested approach developed by the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

The Lebed Method, created originally for breast cancer patients, uses gentle movement and stretching to promote circulation and drainage to help decrease edema in the lymph nodes, said Karen Messier, the hospital's oncology program and clinical manager.

The classes, taught by certified Lebed-Method instructor Karen Gibbons-Kowal, focus on healing by employing dance, music and props -- such as hoops or pinwheels -- to boost a patient's range of motion, balance, strength and stamina. The added benefit is the emotional well-being and self-image that improves from class camaraderie, Messier said.

The program is free, continuous and open to any cancer patient or survivor. They take place Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Participants are required to register at (508) 236-7010 and to provide a medical clearance form from their doctors.

Sturdy Memorial Hospital is located at 211 Park St., Attleboro, Mass.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.